[To say he was caught off guard was an understatement. It was odd. Any similar sentiment from someone older than him felt like an eternity ago, how long had it been since he was pulled into a similar hug? Since living in Sinnoh? Was it really that much time between?]
[Nathaniel was pulled away from the ache that was starting to settle in his chest as Yuko spoke, the distant hollow feeling followed by a return to the warm present as he laughed.]
It’s like a competition between you and Gabe to see who beats him up first!
Between you and me, it might be you though. You live in Hoenn, it’s only a train ride away or so.
Not that it would stop Gabe of course, heh.
[He took the omamori into his hands, twirling it in the light as took in all the little details in growing admiration. After a few moments he held it firmly in his hand, as if afraid to let it potentially get lost.]
I… thanks. You really picked me to believe in, and it means a lot. You’ve been there for me a good bit, and…
[His smile wavered as he wiped his face with his sleeve.]
It means a lot, really.
[Knowing now he could actually-finally-return the gesture, he pulls Yuko into another tight hug.]
Thanks for believing in me.